The Prabal Gurung for Target Launch Party

Guests at the Prabal Gurung for Target launch celebrated Valentine’s Day early at Pier 57 with an elaborate carnival dedicated to love, the inspiration behind the refreshingly vibrant collection. As temperatures dropped outside, attendees warmed with delight at the massive spectacle of rides, games, and food trucks embellished with fluorescent “First Date” prints from Gurung’s pieces.

“I’m a product of love,” Gurung said, looking relaxed and happy in a blazer and jeans. “Love from the industry that has made this collaboration happen, love for this city. It’s not just about traditional romance, it’s about loving yourself and wearing the clothes that speak to that. I believe in the thinking-man’s sex symbol, and that’s whom I hope will wear these clothes.”

As if on cue, the bevy of beauties that fit Gurung’s bill arrived to embrace the designer, led by the stunningly polished Carey Mulligan. “It’s really a carnival!” laughed Olivia Thirlby, the fresh-faced star of Gurung’s campaign, wearing a black short-sleeved A-line print dress from the line. “I’m terrified of the rides, but I’m excited for the live music,” chimed in Elizabeth Olsen, chic in a melon and turquoise Gurung dress, a black overcoat by The Row, and Louboutin booties. “I’m also hoping to find a cotton candy machine somewhere,” she added.

She found it alongside the empanada and dumpling trucks. An enormous carousel was the popular ride of choice for partygoers, but the shopping boutique really stole the show. “It’s an easy, breezy, romantic collection, and that’s what girls want,” noted Hannah Bronfman.Rashida Jones, in a Prabal Gurung for Target Dresden blue blouse, J Brand black jeans, and Alexander Wang heels, agreed. “At the end of the day, the clothes are so colorful and energizing.” She peered up in awe at the night’s Space Mountain equivalent, a catapulting ride with the screaming title “LOVE SPIN!” “Now will someone let me ride that thing?”